The Importance of Person First Language

As if there aren’t enough social barriers in today’s society in becoming more inclusive and diverse, one of the major barriers is language. Person first language (PFL) is an etiquette that is used when interacting and providing services to individuals with disabilities or illnesses. PFL focuses on the person and not the disability. An example of PFL would be “an individual with Schizophrenia” rather than “a schizophrenic” or “an individual with Autism” rather than “an autistic”. This would also include dealing with substance use issues such as a "person struggling with addiction" instead of "an addict".

Image Credits: https://www.wearecapable.org/post/person-first-language

When interacting or providing direct service to a person with a disability, think about if the disability of the person is pertinent in the conversation and/or necessary to be mentioned when referring to them. The purpose of changing our language is to help us view individuals with disabilities with the respect they deserve. Just how we use basic etiquette in saying “Thank You” when someone does something nice for us or listening before speaking is good manners to show genuine interest. It is also basic etiquette to address an individual as a person first instead of focusing on the disability. By changing the way we speak to individuals with disabilities is a shift in eliminating labels, overgeneralizations, assumptions and stereotypes.

It is also important to point out that not all persons with disabilities like PFL as their disability or diagnosis is a way of how they identify. Ones sense of identity provides an understanding of how they view themselves and gives purpose to the life they have created yielding them peace. People who dislike PFL will be vocal about preferring Identity-First Language (IDF). Regardless of the individual identifying with PFL or IDF, there is a mutual line of respect for the individual. Instead of assuming, understanding the individual’s preference shows that there is mutual respect in valuing what that the person brings to the table. This language facilitates healthy debates and stimulates proactive conversations about what terminology best represents the person.

Written by
Elizabeth Urbina
Therapist at Mutual Ground